1991 Teen Murders – Mass DNA Test ‘Started Well’

Cologne

The murder of a teenager in Cologne 32 years ago remains unsolved – and here’s why police I am now starting comprehensive genetic testing. On the first date on Saturday, according to a spokeswoman, about 200 men gave a saliva sample at an elementary school until early evening. In all, the police wrote to 355 men who were living in Cologne-Bole on the right bank of the Rhine at the time of the crime or who had some other connection there.

“It started well,” a police spokeswoman said in response to a question from the dpa news agency. The addressee was also given 26 March as an alternate date. In addition, a few people had previously voluntarily given the police a saliva sample because they would not be able to attend both dates, the spokeswoman said.

On October 16, 1991, 16-year-old Sekin Caglar got off a tram and disappeared on her way back from work. The next day her body was found behind a forest near the bus stop in the poll. The girl was sexually assaulted and strangled.

The cold case investigation team reopens the case

The Cologne Police Department’s “cold case” investigation group recently reopened the case. A few days ago, she launched a massive publicity campaign with posters, flyers and her own website so that potential witnesses could get in touch. Prosecutors offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to the perpetrator. “We want to make it clear to him that we’re on his heels,” said homicide leader Marcus Weber.

At that time, there were traces of DNA on the corpse killer been secured. With serial testing, police want to rule people out as perpetrators—at best, get the killer on the ropes. According to the police, thanks to the new analysis methods, a DNA sample can also be used to determine if someone is related to the perpetrator.

“Participation is voluntary and aimed at witnesses,” senior public prosecutor Ulrich Bremer said in advance. But it is also clear: “If no one participates, then of course we will take a closer look at this person.”

_{note: This report is part of an automated service provided by the German Press Agency (dpa), which operates under strict journalistic rules. It is not edited or vetted by AZ Online Editors. Questions and hints please feedback@az-muenchen.de}